AWA celebrates 5 millionth passenger: As Minister, Togbe Afede hail airline’s role in aviation growth

By Desmond MASOPEH

Africa World Airlines (AWA) on Tuesday celebrated a major milestone after recording its five?millionth passenger since beginning operations in 2012, marking more than a decade of steady growth and positioning itself as one of West Africa’s most reliable carriers.

The ceremony, held at Kotoka International Airport’s Terminal 2 Arrival Hall, attracted government officials, aviation regulators, traditional authorities, and industry stakeholders.

The Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture — speaking on behalf of the government — praised AWA for its safety record and contribution to domestic travel, recalling her own recent experience flying with the airline.

“I want to say thank you to everyone, and thank you to the five?millionth passenger,” she said. “We should be proud of ourselves as a nation. The smooth environment you create makes travelling easier for all of us. Coming from Salaga on Africa World, I was given biscuits and crackers,” she added, drawing laughter from guests.

She commended Togbe Afede XIV, Chairman of AWA and Agbogbomefia of Asogli State, for his leadership in building a proudly Ghanaian brand.

“Togbe, Ghana celebrates you. Ghana appreciates who you are and what you have brought to this country. The examples you have set will inspire the next generation,” she said. “In everything you do, remember the red, yellow, and green.”

A vision that began in 2009

Togbe Afede, addressing the gathering, reflected on the long journey that led to AWA’s establishment, noting that the idea first emerged in 2009 despite warnings about the risks associated with aviation.

“Many people told me aviation is a difficult industry — capital?intensive, technology?intensive, very competitive, and with extremely low margins,” he said. “Someone even asked why I wanted to waste resources. But I was inspired by the importance of transportation to national development.”

He recalled drawing motivation from the historic observation that transportation remains central to unlocking Africa’s economic potential.

“Transportation is fundamental. Without the means to move goods and people, development stalls. That belief encouraged me to take the chance,” he said.

Survival in a tough industry

Togbe Afede praised AWA’s staff, regulators, and partners for sustaining the airline through challenging periods, including the collapse of several domestic carriers such as Fly540, CityLink, Antrak, and Starbow.

“When we arrived on the scene, there were about five airlines. Unfortunately, they all collapsed, leaving AWA as a lone ranger,” he said. “That has made AWA the longest?surviving airline since our entry in 2012.”

He also took pride in the achievements of a former student, now serving as a regulator in Ghana’s aviation sector, describing it as a “great honour.”

The chairman recounted international recognition for AWA over the years, noting awards won across Africa and the airline’s growing reputation in the Asia?Pacific region.

“We had a great expansion plan, but COVID slowed things down,” he said. “Now, with support from our management team, staff, and partners from China, we are pursuing growth again, including aspirations to support the creation of a national carrier.”

Milestone passenger honoured

The five?millionth passenger was officially acknowledged during the ceremony, with AWA emphasising that it intends to reach the ten?million mark much faster.

“Can you imagine being selected among so many to be the five?millionth?” Togbe remarked. “Another five million will come much sooner than this.”

A regional leader

Africa World Airlines currently serves several domestic and West African routes and is recognised for safety, punctuality, and operational consistency.

Since its establishment in 2012, AWA has become a major player in regional connectivity, contributing significantly to tourism, business travel, and trade within West Africa.

Looking ahead

The celebration, organisers said, not only marks a statistical achievement but also reaffirms AWA’s commitment to safety, customer service, and its long?term vision of connecting Africa.

“Every one of you has played a role in this journey,” Togbe said in his closing remarks. “And together, we will do even more for our country.”

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